Severe winds reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled authorities to halt in excess of 100 flights, based on local media.
These gusts are affecting the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting households mainly in the southern region, although officials say that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been cancelled because of the weather, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on today come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the intense climate has pressured them to alter certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
