Severe gusts hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households without power and compelled agencies to halt over 100 air travel services, according to domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the complete South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting homes mainly in the southern region, though officials state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been suspended as a result of the weather, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have issued fire bans for concern about bushfires.
