Severe gusts reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties without power and compelled officials to call off in excess of 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas including these major districts.
Locals have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mostly in the southern region, although agencies state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been suspended due to the winds, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on this day occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared fire bans for concern about forest fires.
