Severe gusts hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households experiencing outages and led officials to call off more than 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting households predominantly in the South Island, although agencies report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been halted due to the gusts, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on today occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been called a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have announced fire bans for fear of wildfires.
