Severe gusts hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes without power and led officials to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, based on regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
People have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mainly in the southern region, although authorities say that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the city have been cancelled because of the winds, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on this day come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
