Severe winds hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes without power and led agencies to halt over 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are influencing the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Measures
This outage is primarily influencing households mainly in the southern region, although authorities report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action During Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
