Powerful winds hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led authorities to halt over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing households predominantly in the South Island, while authorities state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the city have been cancelled due to the winds, while certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to alter various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have issued fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
