Severe gales hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 properties without power and forced officials to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
These gusts are influencing the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas including these major districts.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Emergency Response
This outage seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the South Island, although authorities say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted because of the winds, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the intense climate has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
