Powerful gusts reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led authorities to halt more than 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are influencing the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Crisis Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing residences mainly in the South Island, although agencies state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward moving cars on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the urban area have been cancelled due to the weather, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
