Powerful gusts reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties without power and led authorities to halt more than 100 air travel services, based on domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures
This outage is primarily influencing households mainly in the southern region, although authorities say that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended because of the winds, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on today occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
