Intense gales attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled authorities to halt over 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting homes mainly in the southern region, though officials say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been halted due to the gusts, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has pressured them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
