Severe gusts hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led agencies to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
This outage is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the South Island, though agencies say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been halted as a result of the winds, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
