Intense winds hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties without power and compelled officials to call off over 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Measures
This outage appears to be affecting homes mainly in the southern region, while officials say that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been suspended because of the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
