Severe gales attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and led authorities to call off in excess of 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions such as these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the South Island, although agencies state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the city have been halted because of the winds, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced fire bans for concern about wildfires.
