Intense gusts reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced authorities to halt over 100 aircraft departures, based on regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions such as these major districts.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Broad Impact and Emergency Measures
This outage appears to be affecting homes mainly in the southern region, though authorities say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been halted as a result of the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action During Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has forced them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
