Powerful gales reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled agencies to cancel over 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The winds are impacting the whole southern region and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in key areas including these major districts.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Response
This outage seems to be impacting households mainly in the South Island, although officials say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the city have been cancelled because of the winds, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have declared a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Harsh Weather
The wild winds on Thursday come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
