Severe gales hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led agencies to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are influencing the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the South Island, although officials state that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended because of the winds, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to alter certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have issued fire bans for fear of bushfires.
