Severe gales hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes without power and led officials to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
These gusts are affecting the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions including these major districts.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Measures
This outage seems to be impacting residences mostly in the southern region, while authorities say that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted as a result of the gusts, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on today occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the intense climate has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued fire bans for fear of wildfires.
