Severe winds attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes without power and led authorities to call off over 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The gales are impacting the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing homes mainly in the South Island, though officials report that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the city have been cancelled due to the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Severe Conditions
The wild winds on today coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
