Severe gales attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced agencies to call off over 100 flights, according to local media.
The winds are affecting the complete South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences mainly in the South Island, although authorities report that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel entering and leaving the city have been cancelled as a result of the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Severe Conditions
The wild winds on today occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has compelled them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued fire bans for fear of wildfires.
