Intense winds hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 households without power and forced officials to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the entire southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting households predominantly in the southern region, while officials state that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been cancelled because of the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests During Severe Weather
The wild winds on today occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
