Powerful gusts hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and compelled agencies to cancel in excess of 100 flights, according to local media.
The winds are affecting the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing residences mainly in the southern region, while agencies report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended due to the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued fire bans for apprehension regarding forest fires.
