Powerful gales hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced officials to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are influencing the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have released rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting households mostly in the southern region, though officials report that power was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been halted because of the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on this day come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
