Intense gales hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes without power and led officials to call off over 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the entire southern region and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences mostly in the southern region, though officials state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended because of the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
