Powerful winds attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes without power and compelled officials to call off over 100 aircraft departures, based on regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the whole southern region and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the southern region, although agencies say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended as a result of the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on Thursday come as numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
