Powerful gusts attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced agencies to halt in excess of 100 flights, based on regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the complete southern region and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have released rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households predominantly in the South Island, though officials say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been suspended as a result of the gusts, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the intense climate has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
