Powerful gales hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled authorities to cancel over 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the entire southern region and southern sections of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mostly in the South Island, although authorities say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into moving cars on a road by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the city have been suspended as a result of the weather, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Weather
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
