Intense gales attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 homes without power and led authorities to cancel over 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions such as these major districts.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing households mainly in the southern region, although agencies report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into moving cars on a road by a intensive burst, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been cancelled as a result of the winds, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on this day occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
