Powerful winds hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled authorities to cancel more than 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The winds are impacting the whole South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, although authorities say that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been cancelled because of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
