Severe gusts attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced officials to call off in excess of 100 flights, based on local media.
The winds are affecting the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Response
This outage seems to be impacting residences mostly in the South Island, though agencies say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been cancelled due to the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Weather
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
