Severe gales attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced officials to call off over 100 air travel services, according to local media.
These gusts are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas including these major districts.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing households mainly in the southern region, though agencies say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been cancelled because of the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
