Severe gusts attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes without power and forced agencies to call off in excess of 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the complete South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences mostly in the southern region, though agencies state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been halted because of the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday come as numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
