Severe gales reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced officials to halt over 100 air travel services, based on domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures
This outage seems to be impacting homes mainly in the South Island, though agencies say that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot 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 event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been halted due to the winds, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on today coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
