Severe gusts reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households without power and led agencies to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the complete southern region and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
This outage seems to be impacting homes mostly in the South Island, though authorities report that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been cancelled due to the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
