Severe gusts hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties without power and forced officials to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the entire southern region and southern parts of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting homes mostly in the southern region, though officials say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the city have been cancelled due to the weather, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on today occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced fire bans for fear of wildfires.
