Powerful gales hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led officials to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for further utility disruptions.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Measures
This outage is primarily influencing homes mostly in the South Island, though agencies report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the city have been halted because of the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on today coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
