Severe gales hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties without power and compelled officials to call off more than 100 flights, according to local media.
The winds are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the South Island, though authorities state that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been suspended because of the weather, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, bringing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
