Intense gusts reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led officials to cancel over 100 flights, based on local media.
These gusts are impacting the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas including these major districts.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Broad Impact and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes mostly in the South Island, though officials report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a person was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been halted because of the winds, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on this day come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
