Severe winds hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties without power and compelled authorities to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the whole South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing homes mostly in the southern region, while officials report that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the city have been cancelled due to the winds, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Alongside Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has forced them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared fire bans for fear of bushfires.
