Severe gusts attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled agencies to halt over 100 flights, based on domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, while authorities say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been suspended due to the winds, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have issued fire bans for fear of bushfires.