Intense winds attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 households lacking electricity and compelled agencies to cancel more than 100 air travel services, based on local media.
The gales are impacting the complete South Island and southern sections of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Response
The power cut is primarily influencing homes mostly in the southern region, while agencies state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been suspended as a result of the winds, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
