Powerful gusts attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced authorities to call off more than 100 air travel services, based on local media.
The gales are affecting the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing homes mostly in the South Island, though officials report that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been cancelled because of the winds, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on today occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
