Powerful gales attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and led authorities to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the whole southern region and southern parts of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions including these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut is primarily influencing residences mostly in the South Island, although agencies say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been halted because of the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.
