Intense gusts hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and led authorities to halt over 100 flights, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are influencing the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for more utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the South Island, although authorities report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been halted because of the winds, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are affecting Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced fire bans for concern about wildfires.
