Intense gusts attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households without power and compelled agencies to cancel in excess of 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The winds are affecting the entire southern region and lower areas of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones including these major districts.
People have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes mostly in the southern region, though authorities report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the urban area have been halted because of the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
