Intense winds attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced agencies to cancel more than 100 air travel services, according to local media.
These gusts are impacting the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing homes mostly in the South Island, though agencies report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have declared a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
