Intense winds hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled authorities to halt more than 100 flights, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the whole southern region and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Response
The power cut is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the southern region, while officials report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the city have been cancelled because of the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Alongside Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on today occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
