Severe winds hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced authorities to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions including these major districts.
Locals have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Measures
This outage seems to be impacting households mostly in the southern region, though authorities say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended as a result of the gusts, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has forced them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
