Intense winds hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and led agencies to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
The winds are affecting the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households predominantly in the South Island, while officials state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been halted due to the winds, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Conditions
The wild winds on this day come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have declared fire bans for fear of forest fires.
