Powerful gales hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households experiencing outages and led agencies to call off over 100 flights, as reported by local media.
These gusts are influencing the entire southern region and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Measures
This outage is primarily influencing homes mostly in the southern region, though authorities report that power was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended due to the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on this day occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
