Severe winds attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households without power and led authorities to cancel more than 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The winds are affecting the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more utility disruptions.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
This outage is primarily influencing homes mainly in the southern region, though agencies say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a road by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been suspended because of the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action During Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on this day coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
