Severe gusts reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and led authorities to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the complete southern region and lower areas of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions including these major districts.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households mainly in the South Island, although officials state that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into moving cars on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been suspended due to the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Weather
The wild winds on Thursday come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding bushfires.
