Severe gales reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households lacking electricity and led authorities to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
The winds are affecting the complete southern region and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures
This outage appears to be affecting homes mostly in the southern region, though authorities say that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the city have been suspended because of the winds, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, causing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced fire bans for concern about wildfires.
