Intense gusts reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 households without power and forced officials to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Broad Damage and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the South Island, although agencies report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into moving cars on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended due to the weather, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have issued fire bans for concern about bushfires.
