Intense gales hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties without power and forced authorities to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, based on local media.
The winds are affecting the entire southern region and southern sections of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting residences mostly in the South Island, although officials report that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been suspended because of the winds, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Severe Weather
The wild winds on Thursday occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has forced them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
