Severe gusts reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households without power and compelled agencies to halt over 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the southern region, while authorities report that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been halted as a result of the winds, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
