Severe gales reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced authorities to halt over 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are influencing the entire southern region and lower areas of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have released infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions including these major districts.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mainly in the South Island, while agencies say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been cancelled as a result of the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Weather
The powerful gales on today coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
