Severe gusts reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties without power and forced officials to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The winds are impacting the whole southern region and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting homes mainly in the South Island, while officials state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted due to the weather, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has compelled them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
