Powerful gales attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes without power and forced authorities to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The winds are influencing the whole southern region and southern sections of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting households predominantly in the southern region, though officials report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been halted because of the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on this day coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has forced them to change some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
