Powerful gusts reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced agencies to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
The winds are impacting the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing homes mainly in the South Island, though authorities state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been suspended due to the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Severe Conditions
The wild winds on this day occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
