Intense gusts hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and led officials to halt more than 100 air travel services, based on local media.
These gusts are influencing the entire South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have released uncommon red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in core zones including these major districts.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the South Island, while officials say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the city have been suspended as a result of the winds, while certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Harsh Weather
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
