Powerful gales reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households without power and forced authorities to call off in excess of 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the entire southern region and lower areas of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the southern region, though authorities say that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the city have been cancelled due to the weather, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has forced them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
