Powerful winds hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and led officials to halt more than 100 flights, based on local media.
These gusts are affecting the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have released rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting households mostly in the southern region, though authorities report that power was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended due to the winds, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on today coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued fire bans for fear of forest fires.
