Severe gales reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties without power and forced agencies to halt more than 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Emergency Response
This outage is primarily influencing households mainly in the southern region, while officials state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into approaching vehicles 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 suspended because of the weather, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding wildfires.