Severe gales attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes without power and forced authorities to halt over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are influencing the whole South Island and lower areas of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mainly in the South Island, although officials state that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been cancelled because of the winds, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
