Powerful winds reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties without power and compelled officials to call off over 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Broad Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut seems to be impacting households mainly in the southern region, though authorities report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the city have been suspended because of the winds, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
