Severe gusts hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households without power and compelled authorities to call off over 100 air travel services, based on local media.
The winds are affecting the complete southern region and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Measures
This outage appears to be affecting homes mostly in the southern region, although officials state that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been suspended because of the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on today come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued fire bans for fear of forest fires.
