Intense gusts hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and led authorities to halt over 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the South Island, although agencies report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended as a result of the winds, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
