Severe gusts attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led authorities to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the entire southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting households mainly in the South Island, though agencies report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been halted due to the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on today occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has forced them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
