Intense gusts reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties without power and forced officials to cancel more than 100 flights, according to local media.
These gusts are affecting the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mostly in the southern region, while agencies say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been halted as a result of the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on this day coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared fire bans for concern about wildfires.
