Intense gusts hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households without power and led officials to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
These gusts are influencing the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones including these major districts.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting residences mainly in the South Island, while officials state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been suspended because of the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Alongside Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on today occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
