Severe gusts hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led agencies to call off in excess of 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The winds are influencing the entire southern region and southern parts of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting homes mainly in the South Island, while authorities report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended as a result of the weather, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
