Severe winds hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led authorities to cancel over 100 flights, according to domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the South Island, though authorities say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been suspended as a result of the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on today coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
