Severe gales hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties without power and compelled agencies to halt over 100 flights, according to local media.
The gales are impacting the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones such as these major districts.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting households mostly in the southern region, though officials report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the city have been cancelled because of the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Weather
The wild winds on Thursday come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
