Powerful gales hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced agencies to cancel over 100 flights, according to local media.
These gusts are affecting the whole southern region and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the South Island, although authorities state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been cancelled due to the winds, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on today occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued fire bans for concern about bushfires.
