Severe gusts reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and compelled authorities to call off over 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting residences mainly in the South Island, although officials say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled due to the winds, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
