Intense gusts reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes without power and forced officials to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the whole southern region and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences mainly in the South Island, although authorities state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the city have been cancelled as a result of the weather, and certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
