Powerful gusts hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled authorities to halt over 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the complete South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households mostly in the South Island, although authorities say that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been cancelled because of the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have announced fire bans for fear of bushfires.
