Severe gusts hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced officials to call off more than 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the entire southern region and lower areas of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas including these major districts.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Measures
This outage appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the southern region, although authorities say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been suspended because of the weather, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on today occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the intense climate has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
