Severe gusts reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties without power and led officials to halt more than 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are influencing the whole southern region and southern sections of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the southern region, although authorities say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended because of the weather, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
