Severe gusts hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced officials to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
People have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the South Island, though officials say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been cancelled due to the winds, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Harsh Conditions
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 pressured them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
