Intense winds hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 households experiencing outages and compelled officials to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are influencing the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have issued uncommon red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Crisis Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes mainly in the South Island, while authorities state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted because of the winds, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
