Powerful winds hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced officials to call off over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are influencing the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have issued uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas such as these major districts.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mostly in the southern region, while officials say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the city have been suspended because of the weather, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
