Intense gales attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led officials to halt over 100 flights, as reported by local media.
These gusts are affecting the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have issued rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions including these major districts.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing residences mainly in the South Island, while authorities report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been halted due to the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
