Powerful gusts attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties without power and forced authorities to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The gales are influencing the complete southern region and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Measures
This outage is primarily influencing residences mostly in the southern region, though authorities say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been suspended because of the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on Thursday come as numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
