Intense winds hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties without power and forced officials to halt over 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the complete South Island and southern sections of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Response
This outage is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the southern region, although officials report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the urban area have been suspended due to the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on today occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the intense climate has compelled them to change some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
