Intense gales reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties without power and compelled officials to cancel more than 100 flights, based on regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the complete southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting households mostly in the southern region, while agencies report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been halted because of the weather, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday come as numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
