Intense gales hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled authorities to halt more than 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones such as these major districts.
People have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Response
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mostly in the South Island, while agencies say that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been halted due to the winds, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced fire bans for fear of bushfires.
