Intense gusts hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 households without power and led authorities to call off in excess of 100 aircraft departures, based on regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in core zones including these major districts.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more utility disruptions.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting households mostly in the South Island, although officials say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the city have been cancelled because of the gusts, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Severe Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
