Severe winds reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and led officials to call off over 100 air travel services, based on local media.
These gusts are impacting the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting households mostly in the South Island, although officials state that power was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been halted due to the winds, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on this day coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the intense climate has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
