Intense gusts attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled officials to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
The gales are influencing the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Response
This outage is primarily influencing residences mostly in the southern region, though authorities report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been halted due to the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Severe Weather
The wild winds on Thursday occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for concern about wildfires.
