Powerful gusts reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced officials to cancel more than 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mostly in the southern region, while agencies report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been suspended because of the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
