Intense gusts hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes without power and forced agencies to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
The winds are affecting the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas such as these major districts.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures
This outage appears to be affecting households mainly in the southern region, although agencies say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted because of the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests During Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.
