Severe gusts attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties without power and forced authorities to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the complete South Island and southern sections of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Measures
This outage seems to be impacting households mainly in the southern region, although authorities report that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been suspended because of the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
