Severe winds reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties without power and led agencies to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued uncommon red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Crisis Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households mostly in the southern region, while agencies report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been halted because of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests During Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has forced them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have issued fire bans for fear of wildfires.
