Severe gales attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced authorities to halt more than 100 flights, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the whole southern region and southern sections of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas including these major districts.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting households mostly in the southern region, although authorities state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been cancelled because of the weather, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared fire bans for fear of bushfires.
