Intense winds hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 properties without power and forced agencies to halt in excess of 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the whole southern region and southern sections of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting households predominantly in the southern region, although officials state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been suspended due to the gusts, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on today occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
