Powerful gusts attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households experiencing outages and led authorities to cancel over 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
The gales are affecting the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing households mostly in the South Island, while agencies say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been halted as a result of the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has compelled them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
