Intense gusts reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced officials to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting residences mostly in the South Island, although agencies say that power was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, 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.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended as a result of the winds, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
