Severe gusts hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled agencies to halt more than 100 flights, based on local media.
The gales are impacting the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas including these major districts.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Measures
This outage appears to be affecting households predominantly in the South Island, while authorities state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been cancelled due to the winds, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have announced fire bans for concern about wildfires.
