Intense gusts reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and led agencies to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
The winds are impacting the entire South Island and lower areas of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mostly in the South Island, while agencies state that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been halted as a result of the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on this day occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the intense climate has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
