Intense gusts reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced authorities to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, based on regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions including these major districts.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting households mainly in the southern region, though agencies state that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been cancelled because of the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
