Severe gusts reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led agencies to call off over 100 flights, as reported by local media.
These gusts are impacting the entire southern region and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences mostly in the South Island, while authorities report that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man 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 blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been suspended due to the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
