Severe winds attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties without power and led officials to call off in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the entire southern region and southern sections of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the South Island, although officials say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled due to the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to change some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
