Intense gales reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced agencies to halt over 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The winds are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released uncommon red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Crisis Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing residences mostly in the South Island, while authorities state that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a road by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been halted because of the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have announced fire bans for concern about forest fires.
