Severe winds attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes without power and led agencies to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, based on local media.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for more utility disruptions.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting households mostly in the South Island, though authorities say that power was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been cancelled as a result of the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action During Harsh Weather
The wild winds on Thursday occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued fire bans for apprehension regarding bushfires.
