Powerful winds hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled officials to halt over 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The gales are influencing the entire southern region and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have issued rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response
The power cut appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the South Island, though officials report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been halted due to the winds, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the intense climate has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
