Intense gusts reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled authorities to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
The gales are influencing the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing homes mostly in the South Island, though agencies say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been halted because of the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday come as numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued fire bans for fear of wildfires.
