Powerful gusts hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced authorities to cancel in excess of 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are influencing the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the southern region, though agencies state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the urban area have been cancelled due to the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared fire bans for concern about bushfires.
