Severe gales hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led officials to cancel more than 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are influencing the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the South Island, while authorities report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been halted because of the winds, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding forest fires.
