Powerful winds hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led authorities to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, based on regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing households mostly in the southern region, while agencies report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been cancelled due to the winds, while certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Severe Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have announced fire bans for fear of wildfires.
