Intense winds attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and forced authorities to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions such as these major districts.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Measures
This outage is primarily influencing residences mainly in the South Island, while officials state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was killed after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been cancelled due to the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have announced fire bans for fear of wildfires.
