Powerful winds reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and forced officials to halt in excess of 100 flights, based on regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the entire southern region and southern sections of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have issued rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Crisis Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households predominantly in the South Island, while agencies say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted due to the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Extreme Weather
The wild winds on Thursday occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Officials have issued fire bans for concern about wildfires.
