Severe winds reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and compelled officials to halt over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting households mostly in the southern region, though officials state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been halted as a result of the weather, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced fire bans for concern about forest fires.
