Intense gales reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes without power and compelled agencies to cancel over 100 flights, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in core zones including these major districts.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Emergency Measures
This outage seems to be impacting households mainly in the South Island, while authorities say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the city have been cancelled due to the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Extreme Weather
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding bushfires.
