Intense winds hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households without power and forced officials to call off more than 100 flights, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the complete South Island and southern sections of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences mainly in the South Island, while officials state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been halted as a result of the weather, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Weather
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
