Intense gusts reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced officials to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The winds are affecting the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas including these major districts.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Broad Impact and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences mostly in the southern region, while authorities say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled because of the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
