Severe gusts attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced officials to halt in excess of 100 flights, based on local media.
These gusts are impacting the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas such as these major districts.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mainly in the southern region, although officials state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been cancelled due to the winds, and certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
