Intense winds hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households experiencing outages and led officials to halt over 100 flights, based on local media.
The gales are impacting the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions including these major districts.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
This outage is primarily influencing residences mainly in the South Island, although agencies report that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the city have been suspended due to the winds, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
