Powerful winds reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties without power and led authorities to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The gales are impacting the whole southern region and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions including these major districts.
People have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing residences mostly in the South Island, though authorities report that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been halted because of the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
