Powerful winds attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes without power and led agencies to call off more than 100 flights, based on local media.
These gusts are impacting the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response
The power cut appears to be affecting homes mostly in the southern region, though authorities state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been suspended due to the weather, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
