Severe gusts reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced authorities to call off over 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones such as these major districts.
People have been urged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Response
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mostly in the southern region, although officials say that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been suspended due to the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Severe Conditions
The wild winds on today come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has forced them to change some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
