Powerful gusts reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled officials to call off over 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the whole South Island 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.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response
This outage is primarily influencing households mostly in the southern region, although agencies report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a incident that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been suspended as a result of the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action During Harsh Weather
The wild winds on this day coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
