Intense gusts hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced agencies to call off more than 100 flights, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting households mostly in the southern region, although authorities say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been suspended due to the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have declared a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on today occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the intense climate has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Officials have issued fire bans for fear of wildfires.
