Intense winds attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced officials to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
These gusts are influencing the whole southern region and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced uncommon high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting households mostly in the southern region, although authorities say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been halted due to the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on today come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
