Severe gusts hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced authorities to cancel in excess of 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The winds are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones including these major districts.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households predominantly in the South Island, although officials say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the intense climate has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
