Powerful gales attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households without power and compelled authorities to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
The gales are affecting the entire South Island and lower areas of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have released uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing residences mostly in the southern region, though officials state that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended because of the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared fire bans for fear of bushfires.
