Severe gusts hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties without power and led officials to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are influencing the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, though officials report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel entering and leaving the city have been suspended as a result of the winds, while certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
