Severe gusts hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled agencies to cancel more than 100 flights, based on local media.
The winds are influencing the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing these major districts.
People have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting homes mostly in the southern region, although authorities state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been halted as a result of the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Severe Weather
The wild winds on today come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
