Intense gusts attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled officials to halt more than 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the entire southern region and southern sections of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mainly in the southern region, although officials state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been halted because of the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action During Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has forced them to change some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have announced flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
