Powerful gales reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled officials to halt more than 100 air travel services, according to local media.
These gusts are impacting the complete South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response
This outage appears to be affecting households mostly in the southern region, though agencies state that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the city have been cancelled because of the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on today occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
