Severe gales hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and led officials to halt in excess of 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
This outage appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the South Island, while officials say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been cancelled as a result of the weather, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
