Intense winds reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled officials to cancel over 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the entire southern region and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting households predominantly in the southern region, although officials state that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been halted due to the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
