Severe gusts hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced officials to call off in excess of 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes mostly in the southern region, although agencies say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been cancelled due to the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests During Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on today come as numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the intense climate has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
