Powerful winds reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led agencies to cancel over 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas such as these major districts.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting residences mainly in the South Island, though authorities say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been suspended due to the winds, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
