Powerful gusts attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 households without power and led officials to cancel more than 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
These gusts are affecting the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas such as these major districts.
People have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
This outage appears to be affecting residences mostly in the southern region, although agencies say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been halted because of the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Severe Weather
The wild winds on this day occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has forced them to change some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
