Powerful gusts reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties without power and compelled authorities to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the whole southern region and southern sections of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the South Island, though agencies state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been cancelled due to the winds, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on this day occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
