Severe gales hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 households without power and forced agencies to call off in excess of 100 flights, based on local media.
These gusts are impacting the complete southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the southern region, though authorities say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been suspended because of the winds, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests During Severe Conditions
The wild winds on today come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced fire bans for fear of forest fires.
