Severe winds reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced agencies to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
These gusts are influencing the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Broad Damage and Crisis Response
This outage is primarily influencing homes mostly in the southern region, while agencies state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the city have been cancelled as a result of the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on this day come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced fire bans for fear of bushfires.
