Severe winds attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 households without power and forced authorities to halt more than 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the entire southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued uncommon red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting households mainly in the South Island, though agencies say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward moving cars 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 suspended because of the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
