Powerful winds hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and led officials to halt over 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the South Island, though authorities report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the city have been halted due to the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on this day coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
