Intense gusts hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced officials to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
These gusts are affecting the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting homes mainly in the southern region, though authorities report that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Alongside Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on today come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has forced them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
