Powerful gusts reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and led agencies to cancel over 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the complete South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
People have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting households predominantly in the South Island, though officials state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted as a result of the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Severe Conditions
The wild winds on this day occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has forced them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
