Severe gusts attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled agencies to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
The gales are affecting the entire southern region and lower areas of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting households predominantly in the southern region, although agencies state that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled because of the gusts, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on Thursday come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the intense climate has compelled them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.
