Powerful gusts hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and led agencies to halt over 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
These gusts are affecting the complete southern region and southern parts of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes mainly in the South Island, while authorities say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the city have been halted because of the weather, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on this day coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has forced them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
