Severe gusts hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced authorities to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones including these major districts.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting households predominantly in the southern region, although officials report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been suspended because of the winds, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Weather
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
