Intense gales attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households lacking electricity and led agencies to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the South Island, although agencies state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been suspended because of the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
