Intense gales hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and led agencies to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
These gusts are impacting the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing residences mainly in the southern region, although authorities report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into approaching vehicles 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 weather, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
