Intense gusts reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties without power and led authorities to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
The winds are impacting the entire southern region and southern sections of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
This outage seems to be impacting households mostly in the South Island, although authorities report that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the city have been halted because of the gusts, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on this day coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
