Intense winds hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led authorities to call off more than 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the complete southern region and southern parts of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
People have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut is primarily influencing residences mostly in the South Island, although authorities say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been halted because of the winds, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced fire bans for fear of wildfires.
