Severe winds attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties without power and forced agencies to cancel more than 100 air travel services, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are influencing the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing households predominantly in the southern region, though authorities state that power was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been cancelled because of the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Weather
The wild winds on this day come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced fire bans for concern about wildfires.
