Intense gusts hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes lacking electricity and led officials to call off over 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
These gusts are impacting the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mainly in the southern region, though agencies say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the urban area have been cancelled because of the weather, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Conditions
The wild winds on today occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the intense climate has forced them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for concern about wildfires.
