Powerful winds hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled authorities to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
The gales are impacting the whole South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Response
The power cut seems to be impacting homes mostly in the South Island, although agencies state that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been suspended due to the winds, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Conditions
The wild winds on today coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the intense climate has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared burning restrictions for concern about wildfires.
