Powerful gusts reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties without power and led authorities to cancel over 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the entire southern region and southern parts of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Measures
This outage is primarily influencing households mainly in the South Island, while officials say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been cancelled because of the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Extreme Weather
The wild winds on Thursday occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the intense climate has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced fire bans for fear of bushfires.
