Intense gales attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties without power and led agencies to cancel more than 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mostly in the South Island, while agencies state that power was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been halted due to the winds, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on this day coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has forced them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared fire bans for fear of forest fires.
