Intense winds attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties without power and led agencies to halt in excess of 100 flights, based on domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the entire southern region and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
This outage seems to be impacting households predominantly in the South Island, while agencies report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been suspended due to the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has forced them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
