Severe gusts reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled authorities to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, based on local media.
The gales are affecting the whole southern region and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions including these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, while agencies state that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a incident that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been suspended because of the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared fire bans for fear of forest fires.
