Intense winds attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties without power and compelled officials to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, according to local media.
The gales are influencing the complete southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
This outage appears to be affecting residences mainly in the South Island, though agencies say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been halted as a result of the weather, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
