Powerful gales hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households without power and led agencies to halt in excess of 100 flights, based on local media.
These gusts are influencing the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing households mostly in the South Island, though officials report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted because of the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on today come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has forced them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
