Intense gales hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes without power and compelled officials to cancel over 100 flights, according to local media.
The gales are influencing the complete South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have issued rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing households predominantly in the southern region, although agencies report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was killed after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been suspended due to the weather, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on this day coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have issued fire bans for fear of wildfires.
