Powerful gusts reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled authorities to call off more than 100 flights, according to domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the whole southern region and southern sections of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the South Island, though agencies say that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been cancelled due to the weather, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
