Powerful gusts reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled agencies to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
These gusts are impacting the complete southern region and southern sections of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting homes mostly in the southern region, although officials report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted because of the winds, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on this day come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
