Powerful gusts attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled officials to call off over 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more utility disruptions.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting residences mainly in the South Island, although officials report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended due to the winds, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
