Powerful gales reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 households experiencing outages and led authorities to call off in excess of 100 flights, based on regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Crisis Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the South Island, while authorities state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been suspended because of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding bushfires.
