Severe gales hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced agencies to call off over 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
The gales are impacting the whole southern region and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in key areas including these major districts.
People have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mainly in the South Island, while agencies report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the urban area have been cancelled because of the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the intense climate has compelled them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
