Severe gales reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled agencies to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting households predominantly in the South Island, while agencies state that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the city have been cancelled due to the winds, while certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the intense climate has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
