Severe gusts hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and forced authorities to halt more than 100 air travel services, based on domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the whole South Island and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the southern region, although authorities state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been halted as a result of the gusts, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
