Powerful gales reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced officials to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
These gusts are affecting the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions including these major districts.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures
This outage is primarily influencing homes mainly in the southern region, though agencies state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a person was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the urban area have been cancelled due to the winds, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action During Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
