Intense gusts reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties without power and compelled authorities to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
The gales are impacting the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions including these major districts.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the southern region, though authorities say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended due to the weather, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding bushfires.
