Severe gusts hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties without power and led officials to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
The gales are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones such as these major districts.
People have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting households mainly in the South Island, though agencies say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been cancelled due to the winds, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.
