Intense gusts hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households without power and compelled officials to call off over 100 flights, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are influencing the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes mostly in the southern region, while agencies state that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been halted due to the weather, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for concern about wildfires.
