Intense gusts hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and led authorities to halt more than 100 flights, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are influencing the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Measures
This outage appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the southern region, while officials state that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the urban area have been suspended due to the weather, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
