Intense gales reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and led agencies to halt over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the whole southern region and southern parts of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing residences mostly in the southern region, though officials report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been halted because of the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
