Powerful gales hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled authorities to call off over 100 air travel services, based on local media.
The gales are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for more utility disruptions.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Measures
This outage appears to be affecting homes mainly in the South Island, although authorities say that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been suspended as a result of the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on this day occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared fire bans for concern about forest fires.
