Intense winds reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled authorities to call off over 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
This outage seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the southern region, although authorities state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been suspended as a result of the weather, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on today come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
