Severe gales reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced authorities to halt over 100 air travel services, according to local media.
The gales are influencing the complete southern region and lower areas of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Broad Impact and Emergency Measures
This outage is primarily influencing homes mainly in the southern region, while officials say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled as a result of the winds, while certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Weather
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
