Intense winds hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled agencies to call off in excess of 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The gales are impacting the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions including these major districts.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting residences mostly in the South Island, though authorities state that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been cancelled because of the weather, while certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
