Powerful winds hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled officials to call off over 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The winds are impacting the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response
This outage appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the South Island, while agencies state that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been halted because of the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on today coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
