Intense winds attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties without power and compelled authorities to call off more than 100 flights, based on local media.
These gusts are impacting the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Crisis Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing households mostly in the southern region, although authorities say that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being impacted by a falling limb 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 recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been suspended due to the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Severe Weather
The wild winds on today occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
