Severe gusts reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led authorities to call off more than 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
The winds are impacting the entire southern region and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Response
This outage seems to be impacting households predominantly in the southern region, though authorities say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been suspended because of the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to change some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
