Powerful gales attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced agencies to cancel over 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are influencing the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions such as these major districts.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut is primarily influencing households mostly in the South Island, though agencies state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been cancelled because of the weather, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
