Powerful winds hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced officials to call off over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are impacting the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas such as these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences mainly in the South Island, although authorities state that power was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended because of the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on today coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Authorities have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding bushfires.
