Severe gusts attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced agencies to call off in excess of 100 flights, according to local media.
The gales are impacting the whole southern region and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have released rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
This outage is primarily influencing homes mostly in the South Island, although authorities state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been cancelled due to the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Severe Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
