Severe gusts attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced agencies to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut is primarily influencing residences mostly in the South Island, although officials state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been halted due to the winds, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Weather
The wild winds on Thursday occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared fire bans for fear of forest fires.
