Intense gusts attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households without power and forced authorities to cancel more than 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the complete South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting households mostly in the South Island, though officials report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Weather
The wild winds on this day occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
