Intense gusts reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households without power and forced authorities to cancel over 100 flights, based on local media.
The winds are influencing the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response
This outage is primarily influencing homes mostly in the South Island, while agencies report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the city have been suspended because of the winds, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
