Intense gusts hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and compelled agencies to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are influencing the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mostly in the South Island, although authorities say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been halted because of the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Alongside Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, bringing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding forest fires.
