Intense gales attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led authorities to halt over 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
These gusts are impacting the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting homes mainly in the southern region, though officials report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been cancelled due to the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Labor Protests During Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on today coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the intense climate has pressured them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced fire bans for concern about bushfires.
