Intense gales hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households without power and forced officials to call off more than 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut is primarily influencing households predominantly in the southern region, though officials state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been halted due to the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
