Severe winds attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced agencies to cancel more than 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are influencing the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions such as these major districts.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes mostly in the southern region, though authorities state that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the city have been cancelled due to the winds, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the intense climate has forced them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.
