Severe gales reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced authorities to halt over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the complete southern region and southern sections of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have issued rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions such as these major districts.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for further utility disruptions.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting households mostly in the southern region, while officials say that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been suspended due to the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the intense climate has forced them to change some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
