Powerful gusts reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced agencies to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones including these major districts.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting households mainly in the southern region, while authorities state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the city have been halted due to the winds, and certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued fire bans for concern about wildfires.
