Powerful gusts hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led authorities to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
The gales are affecting the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Measures
This outage is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the South Island, although agencies say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual 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 pushed toward moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the city have been cancelled as a result of the weather, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on today come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the intense climate has pressured them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
