Powerful gusts hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households without power and led officials to cancel more than 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the entire southern region and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Broad Damage and Crisis Response
This outage is primarily influencing households mainly in the South Island, though agencies report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been cancelled due to the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding forest fires.
