Severe winds hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced officials to cancel over 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the entire southern region and lower areas of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting homes mainly in the South Island, although officials say that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have stated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been halted due to the gusts, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on this day coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the intense climate has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
