Intense gales hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced agencies to call off over 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the South Island, although authorities report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a person was killed after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been suspended due to the winds, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.
