Powerful winds reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced authorities to cancel more than 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
The gales are impacting the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing residences mostly in the southern region, although agencies say that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted as a result of the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
