Powerful winds hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and led officials to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
These gusts are impacting the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing residences mainly in the southern region, although authorities report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been suspended due to the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on this day occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
