Severe gales attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced authorities to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are influencing the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences mostly in the southern region, although agencies say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the city have been cancelled due to the gusts, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on this day come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the intense climate has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are affecting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued fire bans for concern about bushfires.
