Intense gales hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households without power and compelled authorities to call off more than 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the southern region, while agencies say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into moving cars on a street by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the urban area have been cancelled because of the winds, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
