Intense gusts attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes without power and compelled agencies to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the complete southern region and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the South Island, though officials say that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the urban area have been suspended because of the weather, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
