Powerful winds hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and compelled agencies to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
The gales are influencing the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions such as these major districts.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mostly in the southern region, though officials state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been halted as a result of the winds, and certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on today coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has forced them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
