Powerful winds hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 homes without power and forced agencies to halt more than 100 flights, according to local media.
The winds are influencing the entire southern region and lower areas of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Response
The power cut appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, though agencies report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been suspended due to the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the intense climate has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
