Severe gales reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led officials to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
The winds are impacting the complete southern region and southern parts of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have released rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been urged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households predominantly in the South Island, although agencies report that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been cancelled due to the winds, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
