Intense winds reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 households experiencing outages and compelled authorities to cancel in excess of 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Emergency Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mostly in the southern region, while officials report that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been halted as a result of the weather, and certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Severe Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.