Severe gusts attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties without power and forced authorities to cancel over 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mostly in the southern region, although authorities state that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended as a result of the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on today occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to change some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
