Powerful winds hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced authorities to call off more than 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are impacting the entire South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mostly in the South Island, although authorities state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the urban area have been halted because of the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have declared a emergency situation, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the intense climate has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting Australia, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
