Intense winds hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and led agencies to halt over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
The winds are impacting the entire southern region and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas such as these major districts.
People have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Measures
This outage seems to be impacting homes mainly in the South Island, while officials state that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been suspended because of the winds, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Severe Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
