Intense gales reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes without power and led authorities to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, based on local media.
The gales are affecting the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
This outage seems to be impacting homes mostly in the South Island, although officials say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been suspended because of the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Alongside Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on today coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.
