Intense gusts reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led officials to call off over 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the southern region, although officials report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been suspended as a result of the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has forced them to change some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
