Intense winds reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households experiencing outages and compelled agencies to call off more than 100 air travel services, based on domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the whole southern region and southern parts of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Broad Impact and Crisis Measures
This outage appears to be affecting households mostly in the South Island, though officials say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been suspended due to the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Alongside Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
