Intense gusts reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 households experiencing outages and compelled agencies to cancel more than 100 air travel services, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting households predominantly in the southern region, although authorities state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been cancelled as a result of the weather, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
