Severe winds hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led officials to cancel more than 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
This outage appears to be affecting homes mainly in the southern region, although officials say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been halted as a result of the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on today coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the intense climate has forced them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
