Intense gusts hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced authorities to call off more than 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are impacting the complete southern region and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the southern region, though agencies state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled because of the weather, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
