Powerful gales reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties without power and compelled authorities to call off over 100 flights, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are influencing the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued uncommon red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences mostly in the southern region, while officials report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been cancelled because of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on today occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
