Powerful gusts hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households experiencing outages and led authorities to cancel over 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the entire southern region and southern parts of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the South Island, though officials say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been cancelled due to the gusts, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Alongside Extreme Weather
The wild winds on today coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the severe conditions has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting Australia, bringing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
