Powerful gusts attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 homes without power and led agencies to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households predominantly in the southern region, while agencies say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the city have been cancelled due to the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
