Powerful gusts attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes without power and forced officials to halt more than 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are influencing the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mainly in the South Island, though officials say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been cancelled due to the gusts, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action During Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
