Intense gusts attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced authorities to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the South Island, while agencies state that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been halted because of the weather, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Alongside Harsh Weather
The wild winds on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared fire bans for fear of forest fires.
