Intense gusts hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households without power and compelled officials to halt in excess of 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the complete southern region and southern sections of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the South Island, though agencies state that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been halted because of the winds, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
