Severe gales reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 properties without power and forced officials to call off more than 100 air travel services, based on local media.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Response
This outage seems to be impacting homes mainly in the southern region, while agencies report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been cancelled due to the winds, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued fire bans for fear of forest fires.
