Powerful gales reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties without power and forced authorities to call off over 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more utility disruptions.
Broad Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mostly in the South Island, although authorities say that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been suspended as a result of the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have announced fire bans for fear of forest fires.
