Intense gales hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes without power and forced agencies to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the complete southern region and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mostly in the southern region, while officials state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been suspended as a result of the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action During Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on today come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared fire bans for concern about wildfires.
