Powerful gusts reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes without power and led authorities to call off over 100 flights, according to local media.
The gales are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions such as these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Emergency Response
This outage seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the South Island, while officials state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been cancelled as a result of the gusts, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action During Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on this day come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
