Powerful gusts hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 households experiencing outages and led authorities to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the complete South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut is primarily influencing households mostly in the South Island, though agencies state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the city have been suspended because of the weather, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on today occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the intense climate has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
