Severe winds attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households without power and led officials to halt in excess of 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the entire South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Measures
This outage is primarily influencing households predominantly in the southern region, though authorities report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled due to the weather, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Severe Conditions
The wild winds on this day come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
