Severe gales reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled authorities to cancel more than 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
The gales are affecting the whole southern region and southern parts of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have released rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Measures
This outage seems to be impacting residences mostly in the southern region, while officials report that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been halted as a result of the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Amid Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
