Severe gusts hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties without power and led authorities to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing homes mainly in the South Island, while authorities say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been cancelled due to the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests During Harsh Weather
The wild winds on this day occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants 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 modify some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for concern about wildfires.
