Powerful gales attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced authorities to call off in excess of 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions such as these major districts.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences mainly in the southern region, although officials report that power was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled because of the weather, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action During Extreme Weather
The wild winds on today coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
