Severe gusts attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and forced officials to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
The gales are impacting the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have released rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the southern region, while officials report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been halted due to the winds, and certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to alter certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
