Intense gales hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households without power and forced agencies to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are influencing the entire South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting residences mainly in the South Island, though officials report that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been halted because of the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on today occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has forced them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
