Intense winds hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced authorities to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the entire southern region and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting households mostly in the southern region, while authorities state that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled as a result of the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Weather
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have issued fire bans for concern about forest fires.
