Severe gales attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes without power and forced agencies to cancel over 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The winds are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have released infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Measures
This outage seems to be impacting households mainly in the South Island, although officials state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the city have been suspended due to the winds, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests During Severe Weather
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the intense climate has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
