Powerful gusts attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes lacking electricity and led authorities to halt over 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The gales are impacting the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut seems to be impacting homes mainly in the South Island, while officials say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been halted due to the winds, while certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has pressured them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
