Severe gusts attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled agencies to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
The gales are impacting the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions including these major districts.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mostly in the southern region, although officials state that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been halted because of the weather, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for concern about wildfires.
