Severe winds attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced officials to call off in excess of 100 flights, based on regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the complete southern region and southern parts of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences mostly in the southern region, while agencies state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been cancelled because of the winds, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
