Severe gusts reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes without power and compelled authorities to halt over 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are influencing the whole southern region and southern sections of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting homes mainly in the southern region, although agencies say that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been halted because of the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding bushfires.
