Powerful winds attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled officials to halt in excess of 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mostly in the southern region, although authorities say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been suspended because of the weather, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Alongside Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on this day coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has forced them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
