Severe winds hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led authorities to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Emergency Response
This outage appears to be affecting households predominantly in the southern region, though agencies report that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the city have been cancelled because of the gusts, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Conditions
The wild winds on this day occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
