Intense winds hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led authorities to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are influencing the complete southern region and southern sections of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mainly in the South Island, though agencies say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been halted as a result of the weather, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced fire bans for concern about bushfires.
