Intense gales hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led authorities to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
The winds are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mainly in the South Island, although authorities state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the city have been halted as a result of the winds, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has pressured them to alter certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
