Intense gusts reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households without power and compelled officials to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas such as these major districts.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Response
This outage seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the South Island, although authorities say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended due to the winds, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Extreme Weather
The wild winds on this day coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
