Powerful gales hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties without power and forced authorities to call off more than 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the whole South Island and lower areas of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households mostly in the southern region, while agencies state that power was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the city have been suspended due to the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on today come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued fire bans for apprehension regarding bushfires.
