Intense gusts hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes without power and forced authorities to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
The gales are influencing the complete South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the southern region, while agencies say that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been halted due to the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have declared a emergency situation, to facilitate recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on this day coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
Yet the intense climate has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
