Powerful winds reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 households without power and led authorities to cancel in excess of 100 flights, according to local media.
The gales are affecting the whole southern region and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas including these major districts.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Crisis Measures
This outage is primarily influencing residences mostly in the South Island, though agencies report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the city have been halted as a result of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
