Powerful gales attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 homes lacking electricity and led agencies to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences mainly in the South Island, although authorities say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled due to the winds, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Severe Weather
The powerful gales on this day occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued fire bans for concern about wildfires.
