Intense gusts hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led authorities to call off more than 100 flights, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions including these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
This outage is primarily influencing households mostly in the southern region, while agencies report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the city have been halted due to the winds, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday come as numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
