Severe gales reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties without power and led officials to call off more than 100 flights, according to local media.
The gales are impacting the whole southern region and southern sections of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Measures
This outage appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the southern region, though agencies state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended due to the winds, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has forced them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
