Severe winds reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes without power and forced agencies to halt in excess of 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have released rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
People have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting households mostly in the southern region, while officials say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been suspended as a result of the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on Thursday come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for concern about wildfires.
