Powerful gales reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced officials to call off in excess of 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Emergency Measures
This outage appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the South Island, though authorities say that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was swept into moving cars on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been halted because of the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Alongside Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
