Intense gusts reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled officials to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions such as these major districts.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting homes mostly in the southern region, although officials say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a street by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been halted because of the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to alter certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
