Severe gales hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and led authorities to call off more than 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the entire southern region and southern parts of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut is primarily influencing homes mostly in the southern region, although officials report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled due to the gusts, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Weather
The powerful gales on today coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
