Intense gusts attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced authorities to call off over 100 flights, according to local media.
These gusts are impacting the entire southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing residences mostly in the South Island, though authorities say that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the city have been suspended because of the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today come as numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the intense climate has forced them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
