Powerful winds hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led officials to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the whole southern region and southern sections of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Broad Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the South Island, while agencies report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the urban area have been halted due to the winds, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on today occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
