Intense gusts reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced officials to call off over 100 flights, as reported by local media.
These gusts are affecting the whole southern region and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Emergency Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, though agencies say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been cancelled due to the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on today come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to change some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
