Severe gales hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties without power and forced agencies to halt more than 100 flights, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the entire southern region and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Emergency Measures
This outage seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the southern region, though authorities report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been suspended because of the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on today occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding bushfires.
