Intense gusts hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes without power and led authorities to call off over 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are influencing the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mostly in the South Island, though agencies say that power was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a person was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been cancelled as a result of the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
These intense gusts on this day come as tens of thousands 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.
However the extreme weather has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have declared fire bans for fear of bushfires.
