Intense gales reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties without power and led officials to cancel more than 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
These gusts are affecting the whole South Island and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes mostly in the South Island, though agencies report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been halted as a result of the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
