Severe winds reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties without power and forced agencies to call off over 100 air travel services, according to local media.
The gales are influencing the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for further utility disruptions.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Measures
This outage seems to be impacting homes mainly in the southern region, though agencies state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the city have been halted because of the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Weather
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced fire bans for fear of forest fires.
