Powerful gusts attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households lacking electricity and compelled officials to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions including these major districts.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting households mostly in the southern region, though officials report that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been suspended because of the winds, while certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action During Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday come as numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
