Severe gales reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled agencies to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the complete South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing homes mostly in the South Island, although officials say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the weather, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
