Severe winds reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led authorities to call off over 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the complete southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas such as these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting households mostly in the South Island, while officials say that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended due to the winds, and certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on this day coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the intense climate has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Officials have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.