Severe gusts attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households lacking electricity and compelled authorities to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The winds are influencing the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in key areas such as these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut seems to be impacting households mainly in the southern region, though agencies say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been halted due to the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on this day coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
