Powerful gusts hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced officials to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the entire South Island and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
This outage is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the southern region, while agencies state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into moving cars on a road by a intensive burst, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended because of the winds, while certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
