Severe gusts attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and forced authorities to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the entire South Island and lower areas of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for further utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
This outage is primarily influencing residences mostly in the southern region, although authorities say that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a incident that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended due to the winds, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, causing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for concern about wildfires.
