Intense winds hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households experiencing outages and led authorities to halt over 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Response
The power cut is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the southern region, although officials say that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been halted because of the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on today coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
