Severe winds reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes without power and led officials to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
These gusts are affecting the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones such as these major districts.
Locals have been urged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing households mainly in the southern region, although authorities state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended as a result of the winds, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday come as numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued fire bans for fear of forest fires.
