Severe gales hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households without power and forced agencies to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
The winds are affecting the entire southern region and lower areas of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas including these major districts.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences mostly in the South Island, while authorities report that power was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled because of the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced fire bans for concern about wildfires.
