Intense gales reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and forced officials to halt more than 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have released rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing residences mostly in the southern region, though officials say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across 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 woman was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been cancelled due to the winds, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on this day come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced fire bans for fear of bushfires.
