Severe winds hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led officials to halt more than 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mainly in the South Island, although officials report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been cancelled due to the gusts, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Severe Weather
The powerful gales on today coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the intense climate has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
