Severe gales attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced agencies to halt in excess of 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The winds are influencing the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the southern region, although agencies state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the city have been halted due to the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Severe Weather
The wild winds on Thursday come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
