Severe gusts hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled authorities to cancel over 100 flights, according to local media.
The gales are affecting the whole southern region and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing households mostly in the southern region, though officials state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been halted because of the gusts, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on this day come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
