Intense winds attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led authorities to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
The winds are affecting the entire southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Broad Impact and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mainly in the South Island, while agencies state that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the city have been suspended due to the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has forced them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.
