Powerful gales attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled agencies to call off over 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The gales are influencing the entire southern region and southern parts of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences mainly in the South Island, though agencies say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been brought down 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 woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been halted due to the winds, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
