Intense winds reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled authorities to call off in excess of 100 flights, based on local media.
The gales are impacting the complete South Island and southern sections of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting households mainly in the South Island, although authorities state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man 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 pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been halted due to the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on today coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
