Intense gales hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced authorities to halt in excess of 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The gales are influencing the entire southern region and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions encompassing these major districts.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting homes mainly in the South Island, though authorities say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the city have been halted as a result of the weather, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests During Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on today come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the intense climate has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
