Powerful gusts attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced officials to call off more than 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the complete southern region and southern sections of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones such as these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures
This outage appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the southern region, though agencies report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the city have been halted because of the weather, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action During Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on today occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared fire bans for concern about forest fires.
