Severe gusts hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes without power and forced authorities to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the complete southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for more utility disruptions.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mostly in the South Island, though authorities state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been cancelled as a result of the weather, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Alongside Extreme Weather
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have declared fire bans for fear of forest fires.
