Intense gales hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led officials to halt in excess of 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the complete South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Measures
This outage appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, though authorities report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled due to the weather, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to alter certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued fire bans for fear of forest fires.
