Intense winds attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and compelled agencies to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
The gales are influencing the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in core zones including these major districts.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing homes mainly in the South Island, although agencies report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been suspended because of the weather, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on today come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the intense climate has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced fire bans for concern about wildfires.
