Intense winds hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties without power and forced officials to call off over 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the complete southern region and southern parts of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the South Island, although agencies state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the urban area have been suspended because of the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Severe Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced fire bans for concern about wildfires.
