Intense gusts reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households experiencing outages and led agencies to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mostly in the South Island, although authorities say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on today occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has pressured them to change some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
