Intense gusts hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 households without power and forced agencies to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences mostly in the South Island, while officials state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been suspended because of the weather, while certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
