Powerful gales attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led agencies to cancel more than 100 air travel services, according to local media.
The winds are influencing the complete South Island and southern sections of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting households predominantly in the South Island, while agencies state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto moving cars on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended because of the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
