Intense gusts attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led officials to call off in excess of 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
This outage is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the South Island, though agencies state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual 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 individual was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been cancelled due to the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on today coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared fire bans for fear of forest fires.