Intense gales hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced agencies to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the entire southern region and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have issued rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mainly in the South Island, although agencies state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the city have been suspended due to the gusts, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on today come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have declared fire bans for fear of bushfires.
