Intense gales attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties without power and forced authorities to call off over 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
The winds are affecting the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures
This outage is primarily influencing residences mostly in the southern region, though agencies report that power was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been halted because of the winds, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During 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 "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
