Severe winds reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes without power and compelled agencies to call off over 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are influencing the entire southern region and lower areas of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut appears to be affecting households predominantly in the South Island, although officials report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled due to the winds, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
