Powerful winds attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties without power and compelled officials to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting households mostly in the southern region, though agencies report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended due to the weather, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been called a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
