Powerful gales hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households without power and led agencies to halt over 100 flights, based on domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the entire southern region and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones such as these major districts.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
This outage is primarily influencing households predominantly in the South Island, although agencies say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a person was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the urban area have been halted because of the winds, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced fire bans for concern about wildfires.
