Intense gusts attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties without power and led officials to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, based on local media.
The winds are impacting the entire South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones such as these major districts.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mostly in the southern region, while authorities state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been cancelled because of the gusts, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Severe Conditions
The wild winds on today come as numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
