Intense winds hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and compelled agencies to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, according to domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing households mostly in the South Island, although officials report that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been cancelled as a result of the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on today coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
