Severe gusts hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced officials to call off over 100 flights, according to domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the complete southern region and southern sections of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions such as these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households predominantly in the South Island, though authorities report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled as a result of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on today come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced fire bans for concern about wildfires.
