Powerful gales reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households lacking electricity and compelled agencies to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, according to local media.
The gales are impacting the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas including these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mostly in the South Island, although authorities say that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated 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 fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the city have been suspended due to the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to alter various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
