Intense gales hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households without power and forced authorities to cancel more than 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the whole southern region and southern sections of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mostly in the southern region, though officials state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the urban area have been halted because of the weather, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Severe Weather
The wild winds on today come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the intense climate has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued fire bans for concern about wildfires.
