Severe gales hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 households without power and forced officials to cancel over 100 air travel services, according to domestic outlets.
These gusts are impacting the complete southern region and lower areas of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas including these major districts.
People have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for further utility disruptions.
Broad Impact and Emergency Response
This outage is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the South Island, though agencies report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled because of the weather, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Conditions
The wild winds on today occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.