Powerful gusts reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled officials to cancel over 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the whole South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the southern region, though agencies say that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a person was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into moving cars on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been halted due to the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Severe Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the intense climate has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.
