Severe gusts attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled authorities to halt over 100 flights, based on domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mainly in the southern region, though agencies say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled because of the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Severe Weather
The wild winds on this day occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued fire bans for concern about bushfires.
