Severe gusts hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced authorities to halt over 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in core zones including these major districts.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households predominantly in the South Island, although authorities say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been halted as a result of the winds, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on today coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced fire bans for concern about forest fires.
