Severe winds attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes without power and forced officials to call off over 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the southern region, although authorities report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been suspended due to the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
