Intense winds reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties without power and forced authorities to cancel more than 100 flights, based on regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households predominantly in the southern region, while authorities state that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been suspended due to the winds, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Weather
The wild winds on this day occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding bushfires.
