Severe gales hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households without power and led officials to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
These gusts are impacting the complete South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing these major districts.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting households predominantly in the South Island, though authorities say that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been halted as a result of the winds, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on today occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has forced them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
