Powerful gusts reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes without power and forced agencies to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, according to local media.
The winds are impacting the entire southern region and southern sections of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones including these major districts.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting residences mostly in the southern region, though authorities report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been halted due to the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Weather
These intense gusts on this day come as numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
