Powerful gusts hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties without power and led officials to call off more than 100 flights, according to local media.
The winds are influencing the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting households mainly in the southern region, while authorities report that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been suspended as a result of the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on today occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the intense climate has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
