Severe gusts attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties without power and forced agencies to halt more than 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the entire southern region and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the southern region, although officials report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the city have been halted due to the winds, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on this day coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
