Intense gusts reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led agencies to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
These gusts are affecting the entire southern region and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mostly in the southern region, although authorities report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into moving cars on a road by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been cancelled as a result of the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
