Intense winds reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households experiencing outages and led officials to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
The winds are impacting the entire southern region and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones such as these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the southern region, although officials state that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the city have been cancelled due to the winds, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on today come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have announced fire bans for fear of wildfires.
