Powerful winds hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced agencies to halt over 100 air travel services, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas including these major districts.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting households mainly in the southern region, though agencies state that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been halted as a result of the gusts, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the intense climate has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
