Severe gales reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes without power and led officials to cancel in excess of 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Emergency Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mainly in the southern region, although authorities state that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into moving cars on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been suspended due to the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has compelled them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
