Severe winds reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced officials to halt over 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones including these major districts.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut seems to be impacting households predominantly in the South Island, although authorities say that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the urban area have been halted as a result of the winds, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have declared fire bans for concern about bushfires.
