Powerful gusts reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties without power and forced authorities to cancel over 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the whole southern region and southern parts of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions such as these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing homes mostly in the South Island, while agencies report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been cancelled due to the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
