Severe gales reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led agencies to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The winds are influencing the whole South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing households mostly in the South Island, though authorities report that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests During Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on this day come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.