Severe winds reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes without power and forced officials to call off more than 100 flights, based on domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the entire southern region and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing homes mainly in the South Island, while officials report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been suspended because of the weather, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests During Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on today coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued fire bans for fear of bushfires.
