Powerful winds attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households without power and compelled agencies to halt more than 100 flights, based on regional news sources.
These gusts are influencing the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mainly in the South Island, though agencies say that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Weather
The wild winds on today come as numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has forced them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
