Intense gales reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties without power and led agencies to cancel over 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are influencing the complete southern region and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing homes mainly in the South Island, though authorities state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been suspended because of the weather, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Alongside Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on today coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
