Powerful gusts attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes without power and compelled authorities to halt more than 100 flights, according to domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the complete South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Response
This outage is primarily influencing households mainly in the southern region, though authorities say that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been suspended as a result of the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has forced them to change some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
