Powerful gusts reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced agencies to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Broad Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting households predominantly in the southern region, although officials report that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended as a result of the weather, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the intense climate has forced them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared fire bans for fear of bushfires.
