Powerful gusts hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and forced agencies to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the entire southern region and southern parts of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Broad Impact and Crisis Measures
This outage seems to be impacting residences mainly in the southern region, while officials state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the city have been cancelled as a result of the winds, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on today occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
