Severe gusts attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes without power and led authorities to halt over 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas including these major districts.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing homes mainly in the southern region, though officials report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the winds, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Weather
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
