Intense gusts reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes without power and led agencies to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
The winds are influencing the complete southern region and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Measures
This outage is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the South Island, though agencies report that power was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the city have been halted due to the winds, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Weather
These intense gusts on this day come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
