Intense gales attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households experiencing outages and compelled authorities to call off over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the entire South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas including these major districts.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting homes mostly in the southern region, while agencies say that power was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been suspended as a result of the winds, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on today occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared fire bans for concern about bushfires.
