Intense gusts reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced authorities to call off over 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing homes mainly in the southern region, although officials state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was swept into moving cars on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the city have been suspended due to the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on this day coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have announced fire bans for concern about wildfires.
