Severe gusts attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and led authorities to halt over 100 air travel services, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the South Island, though agencies say that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been suspended due to the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have declared a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
