Severe gales hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled authorities to cancel over 100 flights, according to local media.
The gales are impacting the complete South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting households mainly in the southern region, while agencies report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been halted because of the winds, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have declared a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
