Severe gales attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes without power and compelled agencies to cancel over 100 air travel services, based on local media.
The gales are impacting the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut seems to be impacting households mostly in the southern region, while authorities say that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been cancelled as a result of the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests During Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
