Powerful winds hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced agencies to halt over 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The winds are impacting the whole South Island and lower areas of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones including these major districts.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the South Island, although authorities report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been halted because of the winds, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued fire bans for concern about wildfires.
