Powerful winds hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled agencies to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones including these major districts.
People have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mostly in the southern region, while authorities report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the city have been suspended as a result of the winds, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
