Severe gusts reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led agencies to call off over 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the whole South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the southern region, though officials state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the winds, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
