Powerful winds hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled authorities to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, according to domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for more utility disruptions.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the South Island, though agencies state that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Alongside Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
