Powerful gusts attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and forced agencies to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are influencing the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures
This outage appears to be affecting households mostly in the South Island, though officials say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been suspended due to the weather, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding forest fires.
