Severe winds hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties without power and led agencies to halt more than 100 flights, according to local media.
These gusts are impacting the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have issued uncommon red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in core zones including these major districts.
People have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Broad Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the southern region, although authorities say that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was swept into moving cars on a road by a intensive burst, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled because of the winds, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on Thursday come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has pressured them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
