Intense gales hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced authorities to call off more than 100 flights, according to local media.
The winds are impacting the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Response
This outage is primarily influencing residences mostly in the southern region, while officials report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been halted due to the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have declared a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the intense climate has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for concern about wildfires.
