Severe gusts reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced officials to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the complete southern region and southern sections of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mostly in the South Island, while officials report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the city have been halted because of the weather, while certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday come as numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the intense climate has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
