Severe gusts hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led agencies to call off over 100 flights, based on local media.
The winds are impacting the complete southern region and southern parts of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas such as these major districts.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the southern region, though authorities say that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been halted because of the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
