Intense gales attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties without power and forced agencies to call off more than 100 flights, based on local media.
These gusts are influencing the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting households mostly in the southern region, while officials state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been cancelled due to the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on today coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have issued fire bans for concern about bushfires.
