Powerful gales attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled agencies to call off over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
The gales are impacting the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut appears to be affecting households mainly in the South Island, while authorities say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been cancelled as a result of the winds, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the intense climate has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
