Powerful gusts reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced authorities to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the whole southern region and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting homes mostly in the South Island, while officials say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been cancelled due to the weather, while certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on today occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
