Powerful winds reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households experiencing outages and led officials to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
The gales are influencing the whole southern region and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the South Island, though officials say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended because of the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on today coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
