Powerful winds attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households without power and compelled authorities to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, according to domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the entire southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the southern region, while authorities state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended because of the winds, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Weather
The wild winds on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
