Intense gales attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes without power and led officials to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
These gusts are affecting the whole South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas including these major districts.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Measures
This outage seems to be impacting households predominantly in the southern region, though authorities report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been suspended as a result of the gusts, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on Thursday come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the intense climate has forced them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
