Intense winds attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and led agencies to cancel in excess of 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Broad Damage and Emergency Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the southern region, although officials state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was swept into moving cars on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been suspended as a result of the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared fire bans for fear of forest fires.
