Intense winds attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled officials to halt over 100 flights, based on local media.
The gales are impacting the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut seems to be impacting homes mainly in the South Island, although authorities report that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been cancelled due to the winds, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Alongside Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been called a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
