Powerful winds reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households without power and led officials to cancel in excess of 100 flights, according to local media.
The winds are affecting the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Broad Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households predominantly in the southern region, although agencies state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted because of the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced fire bans for concern about forest fires.
