Severe winds reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled officials to halt more than 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing these major districts.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing residences mostly in the South Island, though authorities state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the winds, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests During Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on today coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the intense climate has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
