Powerful winds reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and led authorities to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
The gales are impacting the complete southern region and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Crisis Measures
This outage appears to be affecting homes mainly in the southern region, although officials report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been suspended due to the weather, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on today occur while tens of thousands 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 intense climate has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
