Intense winds hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties without power and forced authorities to call off in excess of 100 flights, as reported by local media.
These gusts are influencing the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mainly in the South Island, though authorities report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was killed after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been halted as a result of the winds, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on today come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for concern about wildfires.
