Intense gales attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced authorities to halt more than 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for more utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Measures
This outage appears to be affecting households mainly in the southern region, though authorities state that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been halted as a result of the winds, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued fire bans for concern about forest fires.
