Severe gusts attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households experiencing outages and led authorities to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, according to domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the South Island, though authorities say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a person was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the city have been cancelled as a result of the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has forced them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
