Intense winds reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led agencies to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The winds are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the southern region, although officials say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the city have been suspended because of the weather, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on today come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
