Powerful gales attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households without power and led officials to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
The winds are impacting the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting homes mainly in the southern region, while agencies say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been cancelled as a result of the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on this day come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced fire bans for concern about wildfires.
