Powerful gusts hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties without power and forced authorities to halt more than 100 flights, based on regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Broad Damage and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting households mainly in the southern region, though officials state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been halted due to the winds, and certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Weather
The wild winds on today occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
