Severe gusts hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes without power and compelled agencies to halt more than 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
The gales are affecting the whole southern region and southern parts of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have released uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas such as these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mainly in the southern region, though authorities report that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the winds, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
