Powerful winds attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led officials to halt over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting homes mainly in the southern region, while agencies state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the city have been cancelled because of the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
