Powerful gusts reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led authorities to call off over 100 aircraft departures, based on regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the entire southern region and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences mostly in the southern region, although officials report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been suspended as a result of the winds, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the intense climate has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
