Intense winds reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced authorities to halt more than 100 air travel services, according to local media.
These gusts are influencing the whole South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions such as these major districts.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Response
The power cut seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the southern region, while officials report that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the urban area have been halted as a result of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Weather
The wild winds on this day come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has forced them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have issued fire bans for apprehension regarding forest fires.
