Severe gusts reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced agencies to cancel more than 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
The power cut is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the South Island, although authorities say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the city have been cancelled as a result of the weather, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on this day come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
