Intense winds attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties without power and compelled officials to halt in excess of 100 flights, according to local media.
The gales are influencing the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Measures
This outage is primarily influencing homes mostly in the South Island, though authorities report that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been halted because of the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have declared a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued fire bans for fear of bushfires.
