Intense gusts attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled officials to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting residences mainly in the South Island, though authorities state that power was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been cancelled because of the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action During Severe Weather
The powerful gales on this day come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has forced them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared fire bans for fear of forest fires.
