Powerful gales attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led authorities to call off more than 100 air travel services, based on local media.
These gusts are impacting the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing residences mostly in the South Island, while officials report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a person was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended because of the weather, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have announced fire bans for fear of forest fires.
