Severe winds hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties without power and forced officials to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the southern region, though authorities report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been halted due to the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on this day occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
