Intense gusts attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households without power and led agencies to cancel more than 100 air travel services, according to domestic outlets.
These gusts are impacting the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas including these major districts.
People have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Emergency Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mainly in the southern region, while agencies state that power was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been halted because of the winds, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on this day coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
