Powerful winds attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced authorities to call off over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the entire southern region and southern sections of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
This outage appears to be affecting residences mostly in the southern region, while officials report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been halted due to the gusts, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on today coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been called a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding bushfires.
