Powerful gales hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled agencies to cancel over 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Broad Impact and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mainly in the South Island, although agencies state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the gusts, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on this day come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to change some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
