Intense winds reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled authorities to call off more than 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have released uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones including these major districts.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting households predominantly in the southern region, while authorities say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto moving cars 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 urban area have been halted due to the gusts, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on today come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
