Intense winds reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled agencies to halt more than 100 air travel services, according to local media.
The gales are impacting the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the South Island, though agencies report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been suspended due to the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Weather
The wild winds on today coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has forced them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have announced fire bans for concern about wildfires.
