Powerful gusts attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties without power and forced officials to call off more than 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
The gales are impacting the whole southern region and southern sections of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
People have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting households mostly in the southern region, though agencies report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been halted as a result of the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has pressured them to change some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared fire bans for concern about bushfires.
