Severe gusts attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 households lacking electricity and led officials to halt more than 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions including these major districts.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households mainly in the South Island, though authorities say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
