Severe gales hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced authorities to call off in excess of 100 flights, based on regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the entire southern region and southern parts of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut appears to be affecting households mostly in the South Island, although agencies state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been halted because of the winds, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
