Powerful winds reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes without power and led agencies to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
These gusts are impacting the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the southern region, while authorities report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the urban area have been halted due to the weather, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
