Powerful winds reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and led officials to halt in excess of 100 flights, based on local media.
These gusts are influencing the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for more utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting households mainly in the southern region, while officials state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been suspended as a result of the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have declared a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Conditions
The wild winds on this day come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are affecting Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared fire bans for fear of bushfires.
