Powerful gales reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties without power and led officials to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the complete South Island and southern sections of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones such as these major districts.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
This outage appears to be affecting households mainly in the South Island, while authorities say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the city have been cancelled as a result of the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Severe Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has forced them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
