Intense gusts hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 households without power and led officials to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
The winds are influencing the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have released uncommon red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mainly in the South Island, although agencies say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the city have been cancelled because of the winds, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action During Extreme Weather
The wild winds on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
