Severe gusts hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled authorities to cancel over 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have released rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas such as these major districts.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the South Island, while agencies report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been suspended due to the winds, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on this day come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has forced them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
