Intense gales attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties without power and forced officials to call off more than 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
The winds are influencing the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have released rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, while authorities state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been cancelled as a result of the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced fire bans for fear of forest fires.
