Intense gales attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and compelled authorities to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
These gusts are affecting the complete southern region and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the South Island, although officials report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the city have been suspended due to the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has compelled them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced fire bans for fear of bushfires.
