Powerful gusts reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced authorities to call off in excess of 100 flights, based on local media.
The winds are affecting the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes mostly in the South Island, though officials say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the city have been cancelled as a result of the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Weather
These intense gusts on this day occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding bushfires.
