Severe gales reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes without power and led officials to cancel more than 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing homes mostly in the southern region, while agencies state that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been cancelled due to the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
