Powerful gusts attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led authorities to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
These gusts are impacting the entire South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Measures
This outage is primarily influencing households mostly in the South Island, while authorities say that power was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been suspended due to the gusts, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Weather
The wild winds on today occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has forced them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
