Intense gales attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 households lacking electricity and led authorities to halt over 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are influencing the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the South Island, though authorities state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been suspended as a result of the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on this day come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the intense climate has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Officials have declared fire bans for fear of wildfires.
