Severe gusts hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 households without power and forced officials to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are influencing the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting households mostly in the southern region, though authorities report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into moving cars on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been suspended due to the winds, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Alongside Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on today come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
