Severe gusts hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households lacking electricity and led authorities to call off over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions including these major districts.
People have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mostly in the South Island, although agencies state that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a intensive burst, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been suspended because of the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Weather
These intense gusts on this day come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
