Powerful gales attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes without power and compelled authorities to halt over 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Measures
This outage appears to be affecting residences mostly in the South Island, although agencies report that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been halted due to the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on Thursday occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
