Intense winds attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled authorities to halt over 100 flights, based on local media.
The gales are affecting the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas such as these major districts.
People have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences mostly in the South Island, though officials report that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled due to the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on today coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
