Powerful gusts reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 properties without power and led agencies to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the entire South Island and lower areas of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas including these major districts.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for more utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Crisis Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing residences mostly in the South Island, though authorities report that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted as a result of the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced fire bans for concern about forest fires.
