Intense gales hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 households lacking electricity and led officials to halt more than 100 flights, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Broad Impact and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households predominantly in the South Island, although authorities say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been cancelled as a result of the weather, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on Thursday come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to alter certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
