Powerful gusts hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households experiencing outages and compelled authorities to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
These gusts are influencing the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing households mainly in the South Island, though authorities state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been halted due to the winds, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for concern about wildfires.
