Intense gales hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households lacking electricity and compelled officials to call off more than 100 flights, based on local media.
The winds are affecting the whole southern region and southern parts of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the South Island, while agencies say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the metropolis have been cancelled as a result of the winds, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action During Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on this day occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the intense climate has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued fire bans for concern about bushfires.
