Powerful gales attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households without power and forced agencies to call off over 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Response
The power cut appears to be affecting households mainly in the southern region, though authorities state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a street by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been halted because of the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Officials have issued fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
