Intense winds reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households lacking electricity and compelled officials to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the complete southern region and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences mostly in the southern region, though agencies say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been cancelled due to the winds, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on Thursday occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
