Severe winds hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes without power and compelled authorities to call off over 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting households mostly in the southern region, while agencies report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled because of the winds, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to alter certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
