Powerful gusts attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes without power and compelled agencies to cancel more than 100 air travel services, according to domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Crisis Measures
This outage seems to be impacting residences mostly in the southern region, while agencies report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a street by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the city have been halted because of the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have declared a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on this day come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
