Intense winds attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties without power and led agencies to halt over 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the entire southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting households predominantly in the southern region, though agencies state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been halted because of the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on this day coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the severe conditions has forced them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued fire bans for concern about forest fires.
