Powerful gales hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households experiencing outages and compelled officials to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are influencing the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Crisis Measures
This outage seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the South Island, although officials state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have stated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the urban area have been halted because of the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Weather
The wild winds on Thursday come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared burning restrictions for concern about wildfires.
