Severe winds reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties without power and forced agencies to cancel more than 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the whole southern region and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the South Island, though authorities say that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been cancelled because of the winds, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for concern about wildfires.
