Severe gusts reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled authorities to halt more than 100 flights, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are influencing the complete South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have released rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing residences mainly in the South Island, while officials say that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been cancelled because of the winds, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on today coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
