Powerful winds hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led agencies to call off in excess of 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing homes mostly in the South Island, although officials state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the city have been suspended as a result of the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on this day come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the intense climate has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have issued fire bans for fear of wildfires.
