Intense winds hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled agencies to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, based on regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the South Island, although officials report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the city have been cancelled as a result of the weather, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has pressured them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued fire bans for concern about bushfires.
