Intense gales attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes without power and forced officials to halt more than 100 air travel services, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are influencing the complete southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas such as these major districts.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing homes mainly in the South Island, although officials say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the urban area have been suspended due to the winds, and certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on today come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
