Severe gales reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led authorities to cancel more than 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The winds are impacting the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting households predominantly in the South Island, although officials state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been cancelled because of the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have issued fire bans for apprehension regarding bushfires.
