Intense winds hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled authorities to halt in excess of 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The winds are influencing the entire southern region and southern parts of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas including these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Measures
This outage appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the southern region, while authorities say that power was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled due to the gusts, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
