Severe gusts hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led authorities to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the whole South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mainly in the South Island, though authorities say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been cancelled due to the weather, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on this day come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
