Intense gales hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 households without power and compelled authorities to halt over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions such as these major districts.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting residences mainly in the South Island, although authorities say that power was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been halted as a result of the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Weather
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
