Severe gales reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes without power and led officials to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, based on domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the entire southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting households predominantly in the South Island, although agencies state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled as a result of the gusts, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the intense climate has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
