Severe gales reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties without power and led agencies to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing these major districts.
People have been urged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Broad Impact and Crisis Response
This outage is primarily influencing households mainly in the South Island, though officials say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the city have been cancelled due to the weather, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has forced them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting the neighboring country, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
