Intense gusts reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes without power and led officials to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the complete southern region and southern parts of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting households mainly in the southern region, though agencies report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the city have been suspended as a result of the weather, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on today occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
