Intense winds attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes without power and forced officials to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
These gusts are impacting the complete South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones including these major districts.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences mainly in the southern region, while agencies report that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been cancelled due to the weather, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action During Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on today come as numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued fire bans for fear of bushfires.
