Severe gusts attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties without power and forced agencies to call off over 100 air travel services, according to local media.
These gusts are influencing the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas including these major districts.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting households mainly in the South Island, while agencies state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the winds, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on this day come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has forced them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
