Intense winds reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled officials to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
These gusts are influencing the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the southern region, while authorities report that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been cancelled due to the weather, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared fire bans for fear of forest fires.
