Intense gusts attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced agencies to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the South Island, although officials say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been halted as a result of the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
