Powerful gales reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced agencies to cancel over 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the complete southern region and southern sections of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Crisis Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing residences mainly in the southern region, though officials say that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled as a result of the weather, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has forced them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced fire bans for fear of wildfires.
