Intense gales reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled agencies to cancel more than 100 air travel services, according to local media.
These gusts are affecting the entire South Island and lower areas of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued uncommon high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones such as these major districts.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Broad Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households mostly in the South Island, although officials state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended due to the winds, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
