Severe gusts reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes without power and led officials to halt in excess of 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mostly in the southern region, although officials say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled due to the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the intense climate has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
