Powerful gales attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households without power and led officials to halt over 100 air travel services, based on local media.
The gales are influencing the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households mostly in the southern region, although officials say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been halted because of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Weather
The wild winds on this day coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared fire bans for fear of wildfires.
