Intense winds reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led authorities to call off over 100 flights, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mostly in the South Island, while officials report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been suspended due to the winds, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on today come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to change some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have announced fire bans for concern about bushfires.
