Intense gales attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households experiencing outages and led agencies to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, based on local media.
The winds are affecting the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting households mainly in the southern region, though authorities state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been suspended as a result of the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday come as 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.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
