Severe gales reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties without power and led officials to call off more than 100 air travel services, based on local media.
The winds are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been urged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting homes mostly in the southern region, while authorities report that power was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the city have been halted because of the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Severe Weather
The wild winds on this day coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has pressured them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared fire bans for concern about wildfires.
