Severe gales reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led agencies to call off more than 100 flights, according to local media.
These gusts are influencing the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas such as these major districts.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mostly in the South Island, though agencies report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been cancelled because of the weather, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Severe Weather
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
