Severe gales hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties without power and forced authorities to halt over 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are impacting the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more utility disruptions.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes mostly in the southern region, although officials report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled because of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests During Extreme Weather
The wild winds on this day coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared fire bans for fear of bushfires.
