Severe gusts attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced agencies to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the entire southern region and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Response
This outage appears to be affecting homes mainly in the South Island, though authorities report that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been suspended due to the weather, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have issued fire bans for fear of wildfires.
