Powerful gales reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties without power and compelled authorities to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the entire southern region and southern sections of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Broad Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households mainly in the South Island, though officials report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been halted because of the weather, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Severe Weather
The powerful gales on today coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the intense climate has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are affecting Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced fire bans for concern about forest fires.
