Severe winds hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced agencies to call off in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
The gales are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing residences mostly in the South Island, although agencies say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted due to the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.
