Intense winds reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 households without power and forced officials to call off more than 100 flights, according to domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued uncommon high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting households mostly in the South Island, while authorities state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the city have been cancelled as a result of the winds, and certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday come as numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
