Powerful gusts reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes without power and forced authorities to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, based on regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures
This outage is primarily influencing households mainly in the South Island, although officials say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been cancelled because of the weather, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
