Powerful gusts reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and forced agencies to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the entire southern region and southern parts of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Emergency Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households predominantly in the South Island, while authorities state that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the city have been halted due to the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on this day occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
Yet the intense climate has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared fire bans for concern about forest fires.
