Intense gusts reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes without power and compelled officials to halt more than 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the South Island, though agencies state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been halted because of the winds, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
