Powerful winds hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led officials to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, based on domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the entire southern region and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Response
The power cut appears to be affecting homes mostly in the southern region, while officials state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the city have been suspended due to the winds, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
