Severe gusts reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes without power and compelled officials to halt more than 100 air travel services, according to local media.
The winds are affecting the whole southern region and southern sections of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut appears to be affecting households mostly in the southern region, though agencies state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been halted as a result of the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on today coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
