Powerful gales attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households without power and led authorities to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
The gales are influencing the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes mainly in the South Island, while agencies state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been cancelled because of the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests During Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
