Intense gusts hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced agencies to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
These gusts are influencing the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing residences mainly in the southern region, although officials report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been cancelled because of the weather, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on this day come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
