Intense gales reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced officials to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
The gales are influencing the complete South Island and southern sections of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have released rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting households mainly in the South Island, although agencies state that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been cancelled due to the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Weather
The powerful gales on this day coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding forest fires.
