Severe gusts attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties without power and compelled agencies to call off over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
These gusts are affecting the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes mainly in the southern region, although officials say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto moving cars on a road by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled because of the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Weather
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
