Intense gales hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led authorities to call off over 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
These gusts are influencing the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas such as these major districts.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for further utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Response
This outage seems to be impacting households mainly in the South Island, though authorities report that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the city have been halted due to the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
