Intense gales reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled officials to cancel over 100 flights, based on local media.
The gales are affecting the whole southern region and southern sections of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting homes mainly in the South Island, while agencies say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on this day coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
