Severe gales hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled agencies to call off more than 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, although agencies state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been halted due to the winds, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Weather
The wild winds on this day occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
