Severe gales attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced officials to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are influencing the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have released rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Measures
This outage is primarily influencing households mainly in the South Island, though agencies say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been suspended as a result of the winds, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Weather
These intense gusts on today coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are affecting Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
