Severe gales hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes without power and led officials to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, based on local media.
The gales are affecting the entire southern region and southern parts of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing homes mainly in the South Island, while authorities report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been halted because of the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Weather
These intense gusts on today come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have declared fire bans for fear of forest fires.
