Powerful gusts reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes without power and led agencies to call off over 100 air travel services, based on local media.
The gales are impacting the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, though officials say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been halted because of the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Authorities have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding forest fires.
