Intense gusts attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led officials to halt over 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the entire southern region and southern parts of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the South Island, although officials say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the intense climate has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
