Severe winds reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced officials to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
These gusts are impacting the complete southern region and lower areas of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing households predominantly in the southern region, while officials say that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been cancelled because of the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are affecting Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
