Powerful gales reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced officials to halt over 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas including these major districts.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the South Island, although authorities state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been suspended because of the weather, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Severe Weather
The powerful gales on this day come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
