Powerful gusts hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties without power and forced authorities to call off more than 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales 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 infrequent high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions including these major districts.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Broad Damage and Crisis Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the South Island, though officials say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended due to the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on today occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.