Severe gusts reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced officials to halt more than 100 flights, based on regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting households mostly in the South Island, though officials state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been halted due to the winds, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on today coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to alter various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
