Severe gusts hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced agencies to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the complete southern region and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mostly in the southern region, although agencies say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the city have been suspended due to the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Weather
The wild winds on this day coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
