Powerful winds reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households without power and forced authorities to halt more than 100 flights, based on domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the entire southern region and lower areas of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households mainly in the southern region, while agencies say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been halted as a result of the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on today coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the intense climate has forced them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced fire bans for concern about wildfires.
