Intense winds attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 homes without power and forced officials to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the entire southern region and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Response
This outage seems to be impacting households mostly in the South Island, though authorities state that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have stated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended because of the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Alongside Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday come as numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.