Intense gusts attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled authorities to cancel over 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The winds are impacting the entire South Island and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released uncommon red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Measures
This outage appears to be affecting homes mostly in the southern region, though agencies say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been suspended because of the winds, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on today coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
