Powerful winds reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties without power and led authorities to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, based on domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut is primarily influencing households predominantly in the South Island, while officials say that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the city have been cancelled as a result of the gusts, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on this day come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to alter various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.
