Powerful gales reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and led agencies to halt over 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
The winds are impacting the complete southern region and southern sections of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mainly in the southern region, while officials state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted as a result of the winds, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued fire bans for concern about bushfires.
