Severe gusts attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced officials to call off over 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the entire southern region and southern sections of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions including these major districts.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing households mostly in the southern region, although officials state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been suspended due to the weather, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has forced them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
