Intense gusts hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced authorities to halt in excess of 100 flights, according to local media.
The gales are affecting the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
This outage is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the South Island, while agencies report that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been suspended because of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have declared fire bans for fear of forest fires.
