Powerful winds hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households without power and led authorities to cancel more than 100 air travel services, according to local media.
The winds are affecting the complete southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Crisis Measures
This outage seems to be impacting homes mostly in the southern region, although authorities state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel entering and leaving the city have been cancelled due to the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action During Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
