Powerful gusts reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced authorities to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, based on regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the southern region, though agencies state that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the city have been halted due to the weather, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Weather
The wild winds on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have declared fire bans for fear of forest fires.
