Severe gusts reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led officials to halt over 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences mainly in the southern region, while authorities state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a person was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the city have been halted due to the gusts, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action During Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
