Intense winds attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties without power and led agencies to halt over 100 flights, based on local media.
The winds are affecting the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the South Island, though agencies report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been suspended because of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Alongside Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
