Intense gales reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced authorities to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
These gusts are influencing the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting households mainly in the southern region, although authorities state that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been halted due to the winds, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the intense climate has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have issued fire bans for apprehension regarding forest fires.
