Intense gusts reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and led officials to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the entire southern region and southern sections of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the South Island, although agencies state that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been halted due to the winds, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
