Severe gusts reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled agencies to cancel more than 100 flights, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are influencing the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the South Island, while officials report that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been cancelled because of the winds, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on this day come as numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
