Intense gales reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes without power and led agencies to call off more than 100 air travel services, based on local media.
The winds are affecting the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures
This outage appears to be affecting households mainly in the South Island, while agencies say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been halted due to the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on this day come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared fire bans for fear of bushfires.
