Powerful gusts reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes without power and forced officials to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting residences mainly in the South Island, although officials report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been suspended as a result of the weather, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued fire bans for fear of bushfires.
