Powerful winds attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households lacking electricity and compelled agencies to halt more than 100 flights, based on regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the entire southern region and southern parts of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Measures
This outage seems to be impacting homes mainly in the southern region, although officials report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been suspended as a result of the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on today coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
