Severe gusts attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led authorities to call off over 100 flights, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the entire southern region and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the South Island, though authorities say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the city have been cancelled as a result of the winds, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the intense climate has compelled them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Officials have declared fire bans for concern about bushfires.
