Powerful winds attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes without power and led agencies to halt in excess of 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households mostly in the southern region, while agencies report that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled because of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Weather
The wild winds on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued fire bans for fear of wildfires.
