Intense gales attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled authorities to halt in excess of 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
This outage appears to be affecting homes mainly in the southern region, while authorities state that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled as a result of the winds, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Harsh Weather
The wild winds on Thursday come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have issued fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
