Severe gusts hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties without power and led officials to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
The gales are affecting the entire southern region and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the South Island, while agencies state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was swept into moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been cancelled because of the gusts, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on this day occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the intense climate has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
