Powerful gusts hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced authorities to call off in excess of 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The gales are affecting the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas including these major districts.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mostly in the southern region, although officials report that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the city have been halted because of the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
