Powerful gusts reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced agencies to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, based on local media.
The winds are impacting the whole southern region and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing residences mostly in the southern region, while authorities state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has pressured them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
