Intense gusts attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led officials to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
These gusts are influencing the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mainly in the South Island, although officials state that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been halted because of the winds, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on this day come as numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the intense climate has compelled them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have issued fire bans for fear of wildfires.
