Powerful gusts attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households without power and compelled agencies to call off over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
The winds are affecting the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in core zones including these major districts.
People have been urged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, although authorities state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been halted due to the weather, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Severe Weather
The powerful gales on this day occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the intense climate has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared fire bans for fear of wildfires.
