Intense gales reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households without power and led officials to halt in excess of 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing households predominantly in the South Island, though authorities say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been suspended as a result of the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Weather
The wild winds on Thursday come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
