Powerful gales reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 households lacking electricity and compelled authorities to call off in excess of 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
This outage is primarily influencing residences mostly in the South Island, while authorities state that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been cancelled due to the winds, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to change some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
