Powerful winds hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties without power and forced agencies to call off more than 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The winds are influencing the whole South Island and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mostly in the southern region, although officials report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled because of the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to change some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for concern about wildfires.
