Intense winds reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties without power and forced agencies to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the whole South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes mainly in the South Island, though officials state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been suspended due to the winds, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action During Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on today occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
