Powerful gales reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led agencies to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mainly in the South Island, while authorities say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been cancelled as a result of the winds, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Amid Extreme Weather
The wild winds on Thursday come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
