Intense gales hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled authorities to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, according to local media.
The winds are influencing the entire southern region and southern sections of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences mostly in the South Island, while agencies state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been suspended as a result of the weather, and certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on today come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared burning restrictions for concern about wildfires.
