Intense gusts reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced agencies to halt over 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are influencing the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in core zones including these major districts.
Locals have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
This outage seems to be impacting households mainly in the southern region, although officials state that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the city have been cancelled because of the gusts, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on today occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding forest fires.
