Severe gales reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled authorities to call off more than 100 flights, based on regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households mostly in the southern region, though officials report that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the city have been cancelled because of the gusts, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Weather
The wild winds on today come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
