Powerful gales reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled officials to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are influencing the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Response
This outage seems to be impacting homes mostly in the southern region, while authorities state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been halted because of the winds, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on this day come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the intense climate has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Authorities have announced flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
