Powerful gales attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties without power and compelled agencies to cancel more than 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are influencing the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones including these major districts.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Measures
This outage is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the southern region, though authorities report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured 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 approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the city have been cancelled as a result of the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Extreme Weather
The wild winds on today occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for concern about wildfires.
