Intense gales attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced authorities to halt in excess of 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut is primarily influencing households predominantly in the South Island, though agencies report that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been suspended as a result of the gusts, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Alongside Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
