Powerful gusts hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households without power and led authorities to call off in excess of 100 flights, based on domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the complete southern region and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas such as these major districts.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the South Island, though agencies report that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been halted because of the weather, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday come as numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
