Intense gusts attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households lacking electricity and compelled authorities to halt in excess of 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The gales are affecting the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions including these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting households mostly in the southern region, while authorities report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been halted due to the weather, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
