Severe winds reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 households without power and led authorities to call off more than 100 flights, based on regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing homes mainly in the South Island, while authorities state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been halted due to the weather, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on today occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
