Intense winds hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties without power and led agencies to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, according to local media.
These gusts are affecting the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for further utility disruptions.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Measures
This outage appears to be affecting residences mainly in the South Island, though authorities state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the winds, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Conditions
The wild winds on this day come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the intense climate has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
