Severe gusts hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced authorities to halt in excess of 100 flights, according to local media.
These gusts 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 issued uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences mainly in the South Island, though officials report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual 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 blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been suspended as a result of the winds, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Alongside Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on today coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
