Severe winds hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households lacking electricity and compelled authorities to call off over 100 flights, based on local media.
The gales are influencing the complete southern region and southern sections of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
This outage is primarily influencing residences mainly in the southern region, though authorities say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended due to the winds, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have announced flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
