Powerful winds attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and compelled agencies to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
These gusts are influencing the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures
This outage is primarily influencing residences mainly in the South Island, though authorities say that power was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been halted due to the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
