Severe gales attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced officials to halt over 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions including these major districts.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mainly in the South Island, although agencies state that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been halted due to the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on this day coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
