Severe gusts hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced authorities to call off more than 100 air travel services, based on local media.
The winds are influencing the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting households mainly in the southern region, although officials report that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been halted because of the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has forced them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced fire bans for fear of bushfires.
