Intense winds attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 households without power and led agencies to call off more than 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the complete southern region and southern sections of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the South Island, while authorities report that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been suspended due to the weather, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on today occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
