Powerful winds reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled authorities to cancel in excess of 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the whole southern region and southern parts of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have released rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mainly in the southern region, though authorities report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the intense climate has pressured them to alter certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued fire bans for apprehension regarding bushfires.
