Intense gusts reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households experiencing outages and led agencies to cancel over 100 air travel services, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the complete southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting homes mostly in the South Island, though authorities report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
