Severe gusts reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and compelled authorities to cancel over 100 flights, based on local media.
The gales are affecting the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures
This outage seems to be impacting homes mostly in the South Island, although agencies state that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been cancelled because of the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has forced them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
