Severe gusts hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled officials to halt over 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
These gusts are influencing the complete southern region and lower areas of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households mainly in the southern region, though agencies say that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been suspended due to the winds, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.
