Intense winds reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households without power and led agencies to cancel over 100 flights, according to local media.
These gusts are influencing the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mainly in the South Island, although authorities report that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been cancelled because of the gusts, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday come as numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
