Severe gales hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced authorities to call off more than 100 air travel services, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are influencing the entire South Island and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions including these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut seems to be impacting households mainly in the South Island, while authorities state that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a person was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been halted because of the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Weather
The wild winds on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
