Powerful winds attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled agencies to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The gales are affecting the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued uncommon red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting households predominantly in the southern region, although officials report that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was swept into moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been suspended because of the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
