Powerful gusts hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 households without power and compelled officials to halt over 100 flights, based on domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the entire southern region and southern parts of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mainly in the South Island, while officials state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been halted as a result of the winds, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for concern about wildfires.
