Severe gales attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households experiencing outages and compelled authorities to call off over 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting homes mainly in the South Island, though agencies report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the urban area have been suspended due to the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
