Intense gales reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties without power and forced agencies to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing residences mainly in the southern region, while officials state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been cancelled because of the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on this day occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued fire bans for apprehension regarding forest fires.
