Powerful winds attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes without power and led authorities to call off over 100 aircraft departures, based on regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the complete South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut appears to be affecting households mostly in the southern region, although officials state that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been suspended because of the weather, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.
