Severe winds reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced authorities to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, based on regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the complete southern region and southern parts of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes mainly in the southern region, though officials report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been cancelled because of the weather, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has compelled them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for concern about wildfires.
