Severe gales reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led agencies to halt over 100 air travel services, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas such as these major districts.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the South Island, though officials state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the city have been halted due to the winds, while certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday come as numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
