Severe gusts attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced agencies to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
The gales are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mainly in the southern region, while agencies say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been halted because of the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Severe Weather
The powerful gales on today coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
