Powerful gusts reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced agencies to cancel more than 100 air travel services, based on domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the entire southern region and southern sections of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households predominantly in the southern region, although authorities report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the city have been suspended as a result of the weather, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
