Intense gales reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households experiencing outages and led authorities to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes mainly in the southern region, while officials say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been suspended due to the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday come as numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the intense climate has pressured them to alter certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have declared fire bans for concern about forest fires.
