Powerful gales attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties without power and compelled agencies to cancel more than 100 flights, according to local media.
The winds are impacting the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Broad Impact and Emergency Measures
This outage appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, although authorities report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the gusts, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
