Powerful gusts attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced officials to cancel more than 100 air travel services, according to local media.
The winds are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences mostly in the southern region, although agencies state that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been halted because of the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
