Intense gusts reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties without power and compelled agencies to halt over 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the southern region, though agencies say that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the city have been cancelled because of the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Alongside Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
