Severe gusts reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled officials to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, according to local media.
The gales are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures
This outage is primarily influencing residences mostly in the southern region, though officials report that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a road by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended due to the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have declared a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
