Powerful winds attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced officials to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas including these major districts.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mostly in the southern region, while agencies say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been suspended as a result of the gusts, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
