Intense gales reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced agencies to cancel in excess of 100 flights, based on local media.
The winds are impacting the whole southern region and southern parts of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing households mainly in the southern region, while authorities report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been cancelled due to the gusts, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on this day come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
