Severe gusts hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled officials to halt more than 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing residences mainly in the South Island, though officials state that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been halted due to the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on today come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
